Richard Brown runs Proof Culture, a sneaker accessory company, out of his Ohio home. As a small importer, he’s struggled to navigate toward tariff refunds.
Daniel Lozada for NPR
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Daniel Lozada for NPR
When Richard Brown saw the news on his phone, he was so shocked that he walked right past the exit of the bagel shop where he had stopped for breakfast. He then found himself unable to locate his car in the parking lot.
That February day, the Supreme Court had overturned most of President Trump’s tariffs, which business owners like Brown had been paying for nearly a year. His mind raced with questions: How would U.S. Customs refund the illegally collected duties? When could Brown expect his money back?
As he sought answers, Brown recorded an audio diary, which he shared with NPR. His experience highlights a concern among trade experts: the possibility that thousands of U.S. businesses may never recover the billions in tariff dollars the government had promised to refund.
I didn’t realize that the person gave me my bagel, that I could leave, I forgot how doors functioned. This is a win, this… Oh, man, this is, I can’t— I am elated. I can’t wait to— this is going to be a hot mess.
After the court case was lost, Trump and other officials noted that the refund process could be complex and take years. Companies like Costco and Revlon had already filed lawsuits to secure their claims. Many business owners began consulting with lawyers and customs brokers.
Brown, however, did not have those resources. His company, Proof Culture, consists of just him in Ohio and his friend Erron Combs in Virginia. Occasionally, his father lends a hand. They are sneaker enthusiasts catering to fellow sneaker enthusiasts.
“I don’t want to be a customs broker when I grow up,” Brown says, laughing.
